Your Right to Choose Your Collision Repair Center in Houston—and How It Can Save You Thousands

Know Your Rights Under Texas Law

In Texas, you absolutely have the right to select the collision repair shop of your choice—regardless of your insurer’s recommendations. State law prohibits insurers from “steering” you to a specific shop. You are free to choose where your vehicle is repaired and even where it is towed.

Furthermore, Texas insurance law stipulates that insurers must inform you of this right and that they are not required to pay more than a reasonable amount for repairs and parts—even if you choose a higher-cost

Why Insurers Try to Steer You—and What to Watch For

Insurance companies often encourage—and in some cases subtly pressure—customers to use their preferred or Direct Repair Program (DRP) shops, where they may have negotiated lower labor rates or parts

Common steering tactics include statements like:

• “We can’t guarantee repairs if you go elsewhere.”

• “You’ll pay more out of pocket.”

• “Claims will take longer if you don’t use our shop.”

• “We can’t get an adjuster to your chosen shop quickly.”

None of these claims are accurate under Texas

Texas regulations require insurers to follow strict timelines:

• Acknowledge your claim and request additional info within 15 calendar days.

• Approve or deny the claim within 15 business days of receiving all needed info (or within 45 days with valid notice).

• Pay approved claims within 5 business days.

How Choosing Your Own Shop Helps You—and Your Wallet

Better Quality = Long-Term Savings

Independent Texas body shops often prioritize OEM parts, thorough diagnostics, and certified repair procedures—risks avoided here can prevent costly future issues.

Tangible Financial Benefits

1. Maintain vehicle value: Proper repairs using OEM parts preserve resale and trade-in value.

2. Avoid hidden repairs: Thorough independent inspections can catch deeper damage that cheaper DRP shops might overlook.

3. Lifetime warranties: Many independent shops offer strong guarantees on workmanship—far stronger than what an insurance-driven network might provide.

Real insight from the field:“A good shop will fight for the best quality whether they’re DRP or not This underscores that your choice—and the shop’s integrity—matters more than their DRP status.

Action Steps: Exercising Your Texas Right to Choose

1. Research collision centers carefully—look for ASE, I‑CAR Gold Class, or manufacturer-specific certifications.

2. Request a detailed estimate—including labor rates, part types, and repair scope.

3. Notify your insurer in writing of your chosen shop.

4. Keep documentation—any communication, estimate, or claim-related correspondence.

5. Speak up against steering tactics—you can even file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance if needed.

   
   

Bottom Line

In Texas, you have the freedom—and the power—to choose your collision repair shop. Exercising this right allows you to demand quality repairs, protect your safety, and safeguard your financial interests—potentially saving you thousands in future costs.

Don’t let insurance pressure limit your options. When it comes to your car (and your money), the choice is yours to make—and the law is firmly on your side.